Spina Bifida
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Spina Bifida is a condition and a neural tube defect in which the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly during development in the womb.
This is due to the neural tube (an embryonic structure that develops into the brain and spinal cord) not closing all the way or developing properly during pregnancy.
Types & their Symptoms
The 3 most common types are listed below.
Spina bifida occulta:
mildest type, usually doesn’t cause any disabilities & no visible signs
small gap in the spine (no opening or fluid sac on the back)
aka “hidden Spina Bifida”
Meningocele:
a sac of spinal fluid protrudes from an opening in the spine, but the spinal cord is not in the sac
little to no nerve damage
can result in minor disabilities
Myelomeningocele:
most severe form
parts of the spinal cord and nerves come through the open part of the spine in a sac
moderate to severe disabilities
Treatment
Surgery before or after birth (depending on the type & severity) and other treatments to manage symptoms/complications.
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